San Benito Paternity Attorney
Providing Quality Paternity Representation in Texas
When legal matters surrounding paternity arise, you need a trusted advocate. At Gustavo D. Elizondo, III Attorney at Law, we provide experienced legal guidance regarding family law matters. Our San Benito paternity lawyer is committed to helping you navigate the complexities of paternity and secure a brighter future for you and your child.
Call Gustavo D. Elizondo, III Attorney at Law, today at (956) 275-9191 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our paternity lawyer in San Benito.
What is Paternity?
Paternity refers to the legal determination of a child's biological father. Establishing paternity is essential for various reasons, including:
- Child Support: Determining paternity is crucial to ensuring both parents share the financial responsibility of raising a child. Child support obligations are typically established based on the income and resources of both parents.
- Custody and Visitation Rights: Paternity also plays a significant role in determining child custody and visitation arrangements. Establishing paternity allows both parents to have a say in decisions concerning their child's upbringing and well-being.
- Inheritance and Benefits: For the child, paternity can grant access to inheritance rights, Social Security benefits, and other legal entitlements provided by the father.
- Medical History: Knowing a child's biological father is essential for understanding potential hereditary medical conditions that may affect the child's health.
How is Paternity Established in Texas?
In Texas, paternity can be established in several ways, depending on the circumstances:
- Voluntary Acknowledgment: The simplest method of establishing paternity is through a voluntary acknowledgment. Both parents may sign an Acknowledgment of Paternity (AOP) form, typically available at hospitals or through the Texas Vital Statistics Unit. This form legally recognizes the father as the child's parent.
- Court Order: If there is a dispute or if one parent refuses to acknowledge paternity, a court order may be necessary. This often involves DNA testing to confirm biological parentage.
- Presumption of Paternity: In some cases, Texas law presumes paternity. For example, if a child is born during a marriage or within 300 days after a divorce, the husband is presumed to be the father. However, this presumption can be challenged with the help of legal counsel.
- Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Testing: DNA testing is a reliable method of establishing paternity. Genetic testing can conclusively determine whether an individual is the biological father of a child.
Contact Our Paternity Lawyer in San Benito Today
Navigating paternity issues can be emotionally charged and legally complex. Whether you seek to establish paternity, contest a paternity claim, or need assistance with child support and custody matters, Gustavo D. Elizondo, III Attorney at Law, provides the experienced legal representation you need. Your future and your child's future are too important to leave to chance—trust our San Benito paternity lawyer at Gustavo D. Elizondo, III Attorney at Law, to protect your rights and interests.
Contact Gustavo D. Elizondo, III Attorney at Law, today to get started with our San Benito paternity attorney.
